SPAC in black

> For the third year in a row, Saratoga Performing Arts Center is projected to finish the fiscal year with an operational surplus, announced SPAC President and Executive Director Marcia J. White.

The 15 years prior to 2005 were marked by recurring deficits for the arts center, White reported at the Friday, Sept. 21, meeting of SPAC's board of directors, at Colonie's Desmond Americana.

Today's good news is the perfect conclusion to a spectacular celebration season highlighted by outstanding programming, exciting promotions, increased attendance and a record-setting Wine and Food Festival, said White.

"We are also very proud of the progress we made in 2007 in drawing new audiences to SPAC through creative promotions and fresh programming. The sheer beauty of our venue, combined with our world-class programming, offers an exceptional experience. As we look to 2008, we will be doing even more to encourage people to discover " and rediscover " SPAC," White said.

Also announced at the board meeting was the news that SPAC will be launching a regionwide opinion survey to obtain the public's input on a host of SPAC-related issues, including programming, membership and attendance.

People will be able to complete the survey on SPAC's Web site, www.spac.org.

"At the heart of SPAC are the people and families of this region. We want to hear their opinion on the programming and opportunities we offer and solicit their ideas on new directions SPAC should take. This is their venue, and we want to be sure their voice is heard," said White.

At the same meeting, however, Chairman Bill Dake warned that rising ballet and orchestra costs may not cover half of both programs' operating expenses as they have done in the past. The other half of ballet and orchestra costs is paid for with gifts, donations and SPAC's endowment fund.